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Category: Hormones

13May, 2016

female hands with pen writing on notebook on grass outside

Enough of living life like an ambulance, always being on an emergency mode.

STOP! …

There must be an explanation for the nagging headaches, constant mood swings, disorganization, unexplainable forgetfulness, unproductiveness, nervousness, overwhelming feelings, sleeplessness, frequent illnesses… because they cannot all just be coincidences.

It has become quite worrisome that a lot of people are really unaware of the adverse side effects their lifestyle has on their well-being only to realize when it’s too late.

Stress is a thief, don’t let it steal away your happiness and fulfillment in life. It should rather be nipped in the bud! But first, let’s understand what stress really is. It is simply our body’s reaction to circumstances of daily life especially ones that are perceived as threatening.  When this happens, certain stress hormones such as Adrenaline and Cortisol are released into our blood stream aimed at preparing our body to either face or run away from the challenging circumstance. That’s why this response is called “the flight or fight” response.

For example,

If you were faced with a threatening situation such as:

being confronted by a large snake on your way home, you will typically get frightened and notice a speedy increase in your heart rate. You’ll also begin to sweat instantly and have various thoughts running through your mind.

At that time, Adrenaline surges through your body and you may find yourself running away from that situation or at least making an attempt to escape.

Also,

A less threatening situation like getting a new job can cause some level of stress as you prepare to face the new job and prepare to fit into the work demands of the new place.

This can also be experienced in other life’s event like getting married, having children, raising children and other day to day activities.

It is important to understand that stress hormones are not necessarily “bad hormones” in fact, they are necessary for our survival as humans but when our brain is constantly required to secrete more and more of these hormones, it hinders the performance of our immune system thereby causing us to be more susceptible to physical as well as psychological illnesses.

Remember that stress hormones are released when we perceive the circumstance as threatening. It therefore means that our “perception” of every single thing we go through is key in determining whether we become stressed or not. Also, our “reactions” to situations either cause us to accumulate stress or relieve it. Sadly, more people are accumulating than relieving.

The first step towards creating a new beginning is to take out some time to become aware of our stress triggers by studying our perception and reactions to events that we are faced with every day. Also, observe the impact of your perception and reaction to these events on your well-being.

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Feel free to share your own experiences with us as you learn to become more conscious of the impact of your perception and reactions to daily life events.

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8Mar, 2016

hormonesEver heard of hormones?

They are everywhere in your body. The human body is comprised of a network of busy chemicals known as hormones channeled towards particular functions. Several kinds of hormones flows through your body and virtually all your emotions are as a result of the release or insufficiency of each of them.

The amazing fact that is unknown to many is that we are actually in control of the release or shortage of these hormones. This simply means that you can choose to make your brain release particular hormones when necessary. It’s refreshing also to know that the release of these hormones can be done naturally without necessarily spending money although you might spend some time!

A typical human body has about 50 different hormones carrying different instructions to target cells. However, we will only be focusing on the hormone that is also referred to as the “Love hormone”,“Cuddle hormone” or “Good-feeling hormone” sounds interesting right? It is scientifically called “Oxytocin”. Other very interesting hormones will be discussed in the forthcoming articles.

Now, let’s talk about the Oxytocin hormone, what it is, what it does in our body and how it can be released naturally.

Simply put, Oxytocin is the hormone that plays a very essential role in bonding. No wonder it is often called the love hormone. It is secreted by the brain in both males and females and released into the blood. It is the hormone responsible for the feeling of relaxation after sex, it is also found to be released in women during child birth and breast feeding (it helps new mothers bond lovingly with their new born) See why it is called the cuddle hormone?

Interestingly, the more Oxytocin is released, the more it is produced!

Verliebt sein: Schmetterlinge im Bauch :)

Some more amazing functions of Oxytocin include:

  • It relieves stress
  • It makes you feel happier
  • Creates a sense of well being
  • Establishes a greater sense of intimacy in couples
  • Enables you empathize
  • It encourages and strengthens positive social relationships
  • Relieves pain
  • Alleviates depression
  • Eases off social anxiety and mood swings

This is how you can spike up your oxytocin levels naturally:

  • Laugh more
  • Physical touch such as hugs or a hand shake. More hugs a day will boost your Oxytocin levels!
  • Give out something valuable: Oxytocin is released when you give out valuable items especially money.
  • Be more generous
  • Be kind to strangers
  • Kiss your loved one passionately every day to increase your Oxytocin levels
  • Pray and express gratitude
  • Make yourself trustworthy and learn to trust people
  • Practice mindfulness meditation

By taking hold of these natural methods, you literally train your brain to spike up your Oxytocin levels and enjoy its fantastic benefits!

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